You only have one chance to make a first impression!  That applies to your listings as well.  Put on your buyer hat, and consider the following:

• What is the first photo that a consumer sees…on the website, on realtor.com?  Does it pique their interest and invite them in?  Sometimes it makes sense to have a view shot as the initial photo.  You should only include photos that show off a home’s features; never include photos just to have the maximum number. Have you included photos that show off neighborhood amenities?
• When they arrive at the house, how will they react to the curb appeal?  Is the lawn mowed and edged, beds freshly mulched?  Do they say “wow!”?
• While they’re waiting for the agent to open the lockbox, what do they see?  Freshly painted front door, sparkling clean porch lights, and swept front porch?  And, the lockbox is at the front, right?  Bringing buyers in a side or rear door does not enhance the experience.
• Are all the lights on and shades open?  If the agent has to flip on lights after they enter a room, you have not created the optimal initial impression.
• Fresh flowers in the kitchen?  Dining room table set?

You get the idea.  Details matter.  Spend time with your sellers making sure they “get it.”  Sometimes a trip to visit the competition can help them understand the importance of first impressions from the buyer perspective.

One great lesson I have learned over the years is that investing more time up front getting it right the first time can save LOTS of time in the long run.

Have a great week!  Liz

The Liz Moore Insider is the corporate blog for Liz Moore & Associates.  Designed by Liz and her marketing team to serve as a library of resources, tools, and ideas for our agents and staff, the Liz Moore Insider offers a “sneak peak” into our company and culture.  To schedule a confidential interview or to request information about a real estate career with Liz Moore & Associates, you can reach Liz at liz@lizmoore.com, or Lynnette Tully, our Chief Online Strategist, at lynnettetully@lizmoore.com.  Or, call us any time at 757.873.2707 in Newport News, or 757.645.4106 in Williamsburg.